Well-known Aussie artist and Billabong brand ambassador is accused of assaulting his glamorous partner at their beachside Byron Bay home

By ASHLEY NICKEL, NEWS REPORTER, AUSTRALIA Published: 13:20, 9 June 2026 | Updated: 13:24, 9 June 2026 Billabong ambassador and Indigenous artist Otis Carey has been charged for allegedly stalking and assaulting his partner. Carey, 37, fronted Tweed Heads Local Court on Tuesday via video link from jail following his arrest on June 4. The father-of-three, based in Byron Bay, was charged with common assault, going armed with knives with intent to stab and two counts of stalk/intimidate with intent to cause fear of physical or mental harm. It's alleged he assaulted and intimidated Sophie Willing, the co-founder of their design brand Ngaarlu, the Daily Telegraph reported. Carey was initially refused bail ahead of Tuesday's court hearing, where he was represented by Murphy's Lawyers' Bryan Wrench. Mr Wrench told the court his client planned to plead not guilty to at least some of the charges, linked to an alleged incident at the couple's home in March and November 2025. The lawyer added Carey has no criminal history and could be kept under home detention at his parents' house. There have been no reported incidents between Carey and Ms Willing since the last alleged offence. Byron Bay-based artist Otis Carey is accused of assaulting and intimidating his partner and the mother of his children, Sophie Willing Carey (right) was released on bail under strict conditions, including that he doesn't go within 100m of Ms Willing's (left) home The court heard he has been referred to a rehab program 'The complainant (Ms Willing) will be safe pending the resolution of these allegations if he's released into the care of his parents,' Mr Wrench said.  A police brief for the case includes 820 pages worth of text messages, but it's understood the pair have only recently communicated about property matters.   Judge Lisa Stapleton noted the allegations included alleged drug use and said Carey appeared to have 'a problem with the use of cocaine and perhaps other drugs'. Carey was released on bail on the conditions he live with his parents in Coffs Harbour, not drink alcohol or use illicit drugs, not go within 100m of Ms Willing's home and comply with an Apprehended Violence Order.  He was also referred to a NSW courts drug and alcohol program. Carey is due to return to Byron Bay Local Court on June 22. The Indigenous artist is best known for his ongoing collaborations with Billabong, an Australian clothing brand, over the last decade. His latest line of designs with the brand released last week. Carey has also worked with luxury designers, including Christian Louboutin, and has several celebrity fans, including actor Chris Hemsworth, with his work appearing in one of the Thor films. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.